2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi Plug-In Hybrid

Can’t decide between an EV, a regular hybrid, or a plug-in hybrid? Come 2012, you won’t have to make that decision until after arriving at a Ford dealership. Following the recently unveiled Focus Electric, Ford is announcing the C-Max hybrid and C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid at the 2011 Detroit auto show.
Although the gas-powered C-Max is not on sale here yet, Ford is already filling out the lineup with alternative-energy versions. The plan is to offer a Neapolitan-like array of electrified vehicles to satisfy every possible customer—every customer who wants an electrified vehicle, that is. While the pair of hybrids will be very similar, there are of course some differences to note, namely the Energi’s fender-mounted charge port and accompanying ability to pull a charge from the grid.
C-Max Hybrid
The hybridized C-Max will use a powertrain similar to that in the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ hybrids. No details have been supplied, but we expect an Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder coupled to a hybrid motor and electronics similar to what’s used in the aforementioned sedans. Ford says the C-Max hybrid will have better fuel-economy ratings than those cars’ 41-mpg city number. The C-Max will also be able to reach higher speeds in EV mode than the Fusion and MKZ’s 47 mph.
C-Max Energi
The Energi—gee, that’s an awkward spelling—will use a modified version of that system. Ford claims an overnight battery fill-up will be possible on 120-volt power, but the company isn’t saying yet how far the vehicle will travel on electrons alone—or much else about it. When the vehicle is started, it will operate as an EV until the battery hits a level that requires charging from the onboard Atkinson-cycle engine.
For charging, the charge port has the same four-quadrant lighting scheme as the Focus Electric, wherein a ring surrounding the plug lights up in stages to signify how completely the batteries are charged. Energi owners also will have access to MyFord Mobile; this mobile app allows remote access to the car for things like charge scheduling, checking the battery level, and optimizing the cabin and battery temperatures before unplugging.
Batteries Make the Difference
While both C-Max hybrids rely on lithium-ion batteries, the batteries themselves will differ as a result of their operational demands. The Energi model uses a battery designed for recharging and prolonged discharge when in all-electric mode, whereas the normal hybrid uses a battery intended for shorter bursts of juice. Other differences include the Energi’s associated charger and wiring, and a temperature-control circuit for its battery; the normal hybrid’s battery is air-cooled like those in Ford’s other hybrids.
Chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla? That choice will be yours when the C-Max hybrid and C-Max Energi join the standard, gas-only C-Max in 2012. View Photo Gallery